PHNOM PENH — Cambodia and the United States have pledged to expand bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation, signaling growing commercial confidence and stronger engagement across multiple sectors.
The commitment was made during a high-level meeting at the Office of the Council of Ministers between Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth and Aleksandra Zittle, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Expanding Cooperation Across Key Economic Sectors
During the discussions, both sides explored strategies to deepen bilateral partnerships across core areas, including trade, investment, healthcare, energy, tourism, security, and defense.
Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth highlighted the steady momentum in Cambodia–U.S. relations, emphasizing that the United States remains Cambodia’s primary export destination and a major source of international tourists. He praised the active involvement of the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (AmCham Cambodia) and the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) in strengthening commercial ties.
Vissoth also reaffirmed the Cambodian government’s firm commitment to eradicating online scam networks and cybercrime operations, stressing that international cooperation is essential to safeguarding the country’s business climate and reputation.
Rising U.S. Business Confidence and Aviation Progress
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Aleksandra Zittle reaffirmed Washington’s dedication to advancing mutual economic interests. She noted key structural milestones in bilateral aviation cooperation, including:
- Open Skies Agreement: Streamlining air connectivity between both nations.
- Cape Town Convention Accession: Strengthening international standards for mobile equipment and aviation finance in Cambodia.
Zittle pointed to the recent visit of the largest-ever business delegation from the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council as a clear indicator of rising American investor confidence in Cambodia’s growth potential. The visit built upon recent discussions with Sun Chanthol, First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), which targeted private sector investments in infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, and the digital economy.
According to data from the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), Cambodia’s total exports exceeded $17 billion during the first half of 2026—a 19.5% increase year-on-year—with U.S. consumer demand continuing to serve as the primary engine for the Kingdom’s export growth.
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